As a regular reader of this blog, you know I am a fashion lover. I fell in love with clothes as a child through the sartorial habits, glamour and beauty of my family members. My mother was always dressed formally and totally on point. My father wore a wardrobe of British tradition - Church’s brogues and Harris Tweed jackets. My older sisters wore total aspirational glamour. I spent hours staring and learning to walk in my sister Chris’s platform sandals. It was heavenly. My Aunt was a bespoke ladies' tailoress; she could make anything. She could cut a pattern from seeing a style on TV or in a movie and create the piece within a few hours. My life was clearly destined to be living in Fashion.
My career has been only in Fashion, the majority being in Asia, working with Global Brands, experiencing and being part of the incredible growth of the fashion industry and the availability of affordable clothes.
But, during the past decade, I have been struggling with the Business (I refrain from calling it the Industry). The massive growth in the Fast Fashion and Luxury goods Industries has been and continues to be relentless. What was a rather frivolous business in some countries has become a serious margin-generating business. The niche business of fashion has become an enormous industry.
Why do I struggle? I have always wanted the beauty and artistry of fashion to be available for everyone. It was something I was always committed to. In my early career years, I worked for low-cost/price-entry stores. My wish became fulfilled, but at what cost? This is where the struggle is. I created the intention of amazing fashion for everyone, and it happened. It was an exciting journey until it collided with the Climate Crisis! My love for nature is a huge part of my life. To see the loves of my life collide so catastrophically was quite something. I have educated myself in Sustainable Fashion and become something of a spokesperson and educator. Yet, still, I struggle. I think many of us fashion lovers do. We see the beauty and magic of fashion, yet we also see the climatic and environmental impact of this massive industry.
I have asked myself many questions about what is good, what I should be buying or not buying, or engaging in. Only this year can I see a way forward and have some clarity on how to address this conflict. It is in my wardrobe. In the coming blogs, I will explore and discuss the solutions I have found for myself and what I believe to be a methodology for living at ease with fashion and consumption. To have a sense of love and respect for the planet while enjoying fashion and loving life.
Here are my guidelines; some of you will have seen them already, but they will be updated regularly. I will explore each section and subject in the coming blogs, so keep reading.
Here we go:
1. Educate yourself on Sustainable Fashion. What are the biggest impacts? There are endless resources everywhere.
2. Following from number 1, form an educated perspective on your sustainable boundaries. Maybe you stop buying fast fashion, or you stop buying leather, or you give yourself a ‘no buy’ challenge. Whatever it is, this is an educated perspective and very valuable.
3. Review your current wardrobe. If you can, ask someone to work with you to organise it. Again, there are many free online resources.
4. Establish an understanding of your personal style. Develop your style accordingly. We fall victim to or are distracted by fashion trends because we are unclear about what suits us.
5. Challenge yourself to wear your old clothes. Invent new outfits, be creative and enjoy yourself.
6. Swap clothes with others.
7. Buy from your beloved brands, those you love and identify with—those you will wear for many years and then gift.
8. Upcycle your clothes to give them a new sense of life and creativity.
9. Feel blessed if you have beautiful vintage. Wear and enjoy it.
10. Share your beautiful journey with others, document it and inspire others.
As always, have fun; love life.
Kate
Kate Padget-Koh